Books are not pages. They may be collections, memories or favourite stories you want to
save. However, books are difficult to pack when travelling in Canada. They are cumbersome,
bulky and can break easily unless handled with care. A box of books may get too heavy to be
picked up and break up or cause an injury. You must pack your books correctly to avoid such
issues. You can easily relocate your books without pressure and without breaking them.
Gather the Right Packing Supplies
The initial one is acquiring the appropriate supplies. The box used should be small or medium,
since the big ones are far too heavy when loaded with books. Packing tape, labels and paper or
bubble wrap will also be required to provide additional protection. No old or weak boxes are to
be used, as they tear. Good supplies will ensure that your books are secure, and the process will
be easier. It also assists you in getting organised on the moving day.
Sort and Declutter Your Collection
The best moment to downsize the number of books you carry is when you move. Take a tour
of your shelves and make a decision about what books you would really like to retain. Give away
or sell books you do not need. Book donations are accepted in several charities, schools and
libraries in Canada. Fewer books reduce the loads, fewer boxes, and reduce the cost of moving.
Sorting will help you conserve time and space as well as ease unpacking in your new home.
Packing Hardcover Books
Hardcover books are strong, and at the same time, they need care. They can be packed standing,
similar to a shelf, which is the best way. When you have room, put some on the top. Do not fill them
with the spine up; this makes the binding weak. Use paper to occupy blank areas to avoid movement.
And your hardcover books will come in flawless condition by stacking them carefully.
Packing Paperback Books
Paperbacks are more fragile. They are easy to bend, and the cover is easy to tear. To prevent their
spoilage, pile them in small heaps. Do not store them on their edges since the covers are likely
to curve. When packing value paperbacks, wrap them in paper. To prevent any damage, it is good
to keep them tightly packed without overloading the box. This will make your paperbacks
nice and clean.
Keep Boxes Light and Safe
Overloading book boxes is one of the largest errors. Books are not light, and big boxes containing
books are not safe to transport. Always use smaller boxes and make each less than 40 pounds.
When a box is too heavy, take off some books and even out the weight. This facilitates the
lifting and avoids accidents. There is also strong tape on the bottom, which provides additional
strength. Light and safe boxes are convenient to you and the movers.
Protect Rare or Valuable Books
There are values in some books. Extra care should be taken in packing up rare, antique or signed
books. Put each in an acid-free wrap or a bubble wrap. Pack them away in hard boxes with pads on
the boxes. When your books are very expensive, it is better to carry them by yourself in your car than
to hire a truck. They will, in this way, ensure that they come without danger.
Label and Organise Boxes
Labelling is useful to keep you organised. Label the different boxes with the kind of books that
they contain. As an example, “Novels,” “Cookbooks”, or books for children. In addition, use dark
boxes to make them be careful with heavy boxes. It is also much easier to pack and unpack with
labels, as you will know where each box will be located in your new home. Structured labelling
is time-saving and eliminates confusion.
Final Thoughts
The secret of moving books in Canada is all in the planning and care to pack them efficiently.
Putting little boxes in your collection, organising all books, and wrapping delicate ones will allow
you to prevent damage. Do not overpack boxes and ensure that they are well labelled. With the
right method, your books will get into your new home in the right condition and on your
shelves. Moving your collection can be a pain, but it can be painless and quick when you do it
the correct way.
FAQs
What type of boxes do I have to use with books?
Small to medium boxes are the best, as large boxes are too heavy.
Do I use suitcases to pack books?
Yes, heavy books are better carried in rolling suitcases because they are easy to
transport.
Do I need to wrap every book?
Not all books have to be wrapped. The wrapping of books should only be done on
rare books, precious books, or delicate books.
What do I do to prevent the breaking of book boxes?
Keep them less than 40 pounds, stuff them with stalwart boxes, and wrap
the bottoms of the boxes with tape.